Enhancing Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment Planning Through Multi-Modal Imaging Techniques: A Literature Review

Abstract

Abstract Purpose To examine how combining magnetic resonance (MR), computed tomography (CT), and positron emission tomography (PET) enhances clinical outcomes in complex or metastatic cancers, focusing on diagnostic performance, staging accuracy, and effects on treatment decisions. Method Data were extracted and analyzed using a thematic synthesis approach for this literature review. Key variables included study design, sample size, cancer type, imaging modalities used, and reported diagnostic outcomes such as sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy. Results The integration of multiple imaging modalities enhanced diagnostic performance, improved differentiation between tumor recurrence and posttreatment changes, and increased detection of occult metastatic disease. Advanced imaging approaches, including total-body PET/CT and hybrid PET/MR systems, further improved staging accuracy and allowed for more precise assessment of tumor burden. Discussion Findings demonstrated that combined imaging modalities possess inherent strengths. MR offered superior soft tissue resolution and high sensitivity, particularly in detecting local tumor recurrence, while PET/CT provided valuable metabolic and whole-body imaging capabilities, improving detection of metastatic disease. Conclusion Despite these advantages, limitations such as small sample sizes, retrospective designs, and variability in imaging protocols were noted across studies. Overall, the evidence supported the growing role of multi-modal imaging as a critical tool in precision oncology.